March 25, 2026 North Massapequa

LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP

Bonnie Schifano

Lucille Moran Terry Rydyzynski

Josh Marlowe

Victoria Kokolakis

Stephan Schulze

How Gowing Families Can Create More Space

Many people will admit that home ownership tops their lists of longterm goals. Finding a home that is affordable may require moving into what many real estate agents bill as a “starter home.” But the arrival of a child, and then more children thereafter, could make a home that was perfectly functional for two or three feel too close for comfort. Anyone who would like to raise a family in the future might want to consider certain factors when choosing a residence or designing living spaces. A home that can grow with life changes can truly be a forever home. The following strategies can expand space when a family grows.

• Declutter. It is important to go through belongings regularly and remove anything that is no longer needed. This can be the first step to free up physical space in a room or the home in general. Donate any items that still have utility.

• Reassess your existing storage. Look at different ways to maximize existing storage. Utilizing vertical

space is one way to do so, so an investment in shelves, hooks and storage systems that maximize space in an upward direction can get items off the floor. Make use of storage under the stairs or in eaves. Loft beds with open space underneath are great for children’s rooms because they maximize floor area.

• Think about toy storage. Children love to play with toys, and once kids are in a home, toys will accumulate quite quickly. Have a plan for keeping toys neat and stowed away when not in use. Under-thebed storage, toy armoires (that are secured to the wall) and furniture that can double as storage, such as storage ottomans, are ideal.

• Revamp a closet. Although closet space may be at a premium, particularly in older homes, a closet can be turned into a nook to hold a desk for a homework station or remote office space. Compact and organized, it’s easy to hide away when not in use by closing the door.

• Utilize room dividers. Open floor plans have been the norm for some time. But at some point as a family grows, privacy and multi-functional spaces may be needed. It can be costly to put up permanent walls, but bookcases or pieces of tall furniture

can be used as room dividers to cordon off areas as specific spaces, like a child’s play area.

• Convert a basement or garage. Garages and basements have a reputation for being catch-alls for storage boxes and holiday decorations. However, such rooms have plenty of potential as functional living spaces. Invest in transforming a garage or basement into a room that can grow with the family. At first it may be a play area for young kids. Afterwards, it can be a gaming or homework hangout. As children grow older, spaces can be converted to a family media room. Having this extra space can free up room in the rest of the house so people can enjoy alone time when they need it.

• Maximize outdoor space. A yard or another outdoor space can add valuable square footage to a home. A covered patio or deck can make the outdoor areas more usable throughout the year and zones can be created for family meals, play and relaxation.

McKenna Book Lovers Embark On A Week Of Reading Adventures

Students were reading, writing and dressing in style to celebrate Read Across America at McKenna Elementary School in the Massapequa School District.

Read Across McKenna Week from March 2-6 featured themed dress-up days in honor of Dr. Seuss along with literacy activities. Everyone donned a cool pair of shades as teachers brought in and shared beloved fiction books. On favorite hat day, children put on their thinking caps and learned something new with nonfiction books. They closed out the week wearing green in honor of “Green Eggs and Ham” and enjoying a snack during independent reading time.

There were five literacy stations throughout the school. In the lobby, students could vote on their favorite Dr. Seuss books by putting a cube in a bin.

Another spot featured a read aloud by author Angela

O’Hoppe, who visited the school in February, of her recently published book, “If You Choose to Believe Them.” The entire school contributed to a fiction story about a squirrel named Pickle with each class writing a page. An exercise station had 10 physical activities that connected to books, and students unscrambled the names of book character at a word jumbles station.

The library welcomed parents as mystery readers throughout the week, with library media specialist Nicole Congro giving a few clues before the guest walked in.

“This annual event delighted our students and showed them the excitement and joy that comes from sharing a book together,” Ms. Congro said.

Teachers and staff signed up to be guest readers in different classrooms.

There was also a literaturethemed door decorating

contest. Several teachers spearheaded craft projects in which students shared their favorite books.

“Read Across McKenna

Week was created to encourage children to read more books and to promote excitement for reading,” Assistant

Principal Mary Anne Ferraro said. “Students and teachers were thrilled to share their favorite fiction and nonfiction books throughout the week. The secret readers, themes for each day, door decorating contest and reading stations added some extra fun.”

Learn more about how we’re helping communities thrive. psegliny.com/revitalization These two moms opened a spa. It had one big, beautiful effect on the community.

Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.

*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.

Registration Opening Soon

For Town’s Summer Adult Tennis Program

Oyster Bay Town

Councilman Andrew Monteleone announced that registration is will soon open for the town’s Summer Adult Tennis Program. The program provides a fantastic opportunity for residents to hone their tennis skills under the guidance of expert instructors. Lessons are CoEd, open to adults over the age of 18, and take place at

both Haypath Park in Old Bethpage, and Theodore Roosevelt Park in Oyster Bay. Three sessions are available and include options for both beginner and intermediate level players.

Councilman Monteleone stated, “These tennis programs offer a fantastic opportunity for our community to engage in physical activity, learn

new skills, and enjoy the camaraderie of playing tennis together. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your techniques, these lessons, led by expert instructors, promise an enriching experience for all participants.”

Registration will begin on Tuesday, March 31st at 9 a.m. at www.oysterbaytown. com/sports. Fees are $100 per resident and $150 per non-resident. Refunds will not be offered. Sessions are 4 weeks long in duration and each lesson will run for one hour and a half. Participants must bring their own racket.

For more information, and for the full lessons schedule, please call (516) 797-7943 or visit www. oysterbaytown.com/ recreation.

A Rundown On Roofing Pojects

No two home renovation projects are the same. Some projects are highly detailed undertakings that take months if not years from start to finish, while others can be tackled by skilled do-it-yourselfers over the course of a single weekend. Though each project is different, categorizing renovations as needs or wants can help homeowners determine when the time is right to go forward. Roof replacement projects typically fall into the “need” category. A decaying roof can jeopardize the safety and security of a home and lead to additional issues, like water damage. It’s unwise to delay roof replacement projects when signs of a decaying roof start to appear. Homeowners who are starting to see such indicators can look to this rundown of roof replacement projects as they begin the process of replacing their roof.

• Cost. Roof replacement costs vary considerably depending on a host of variables. Materials, location and the cost of labor, dimensions of the roof, and even choice of contractor all affect the cost of the project. The home renovation experts at Angi indicate the average roof replacement project costs $9,500. Asphalt is among the more affordable roofing materials, costing an average of $1 to $1.20 per square foot, according to Nerdwallet. Slate roofs will be more expensive, costing anywhere from $10 to $30 per square foot.

• Life expectancy. Homeowners may blanch at the cost of a roof replacement project, particularly if they choose a more expensive material. However, it’s important to keep life expectancy in mind when receiving roof estimates. Many homeowners never replace a roof twice, making this a potentially costly but ultimately one-time expense. Though slate roofs are expensive, homeowners may find it reassuring that estimates from various roofing resources indicate slate roofs come with a life expectancy ranging from 50 to 200 years. By contrast, Nerdwallet estimates an asphalt roof lasts around 10 to 20 years, while others suggest such roofs can last as long as 30 years.

• Materials. Choice of materials is arguably the most significant decision homeowners will make when replacing a roof. The experts at This Old House report that materials typically account for 55 to 65 percent of the overall cost of a roof replacement project. Decisions regarding roof materials will be affected by budget, local climate (certain materials are better suited to particular climates than others), aesthetic appeal, and required maintenance. It’s also important that homeowners consider the material warranty of each roofing product. Some materials offer longer warranties than others, which can provide a measure of security to homeowners investing so much in the project.

Polar Plunge Returns To TOBAY Beach March 28th

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Lou Imbroto invite residents to ‘Get a Thrill from the Chill’ at the annual Polar Plunge benefitting Special Olympics New York on Saturday, March 28th at TOBAY Beach.

“Many of our residents head to TOBAY Beach for summer fun, but this event provides an enjoyable and charitable reason to spend a great day at the beach much sooner,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Participants will have an opportunity to prove their mettle and their compassion by wading into the chilly waters of TOBAY Beach to raise funds for the athletes of Special Olympics New York.”

The event kicks off with winter festival activities, with registration starting at 9:00 a.m. and the plunge beginning at 11 a.m. The requested donation is $25 per participant. Plungers who raise $150 receive a commemorative Polar Plunge sweatshirt.

All money raised through the Polar Plunge supports year-round sports training and competition, as well as leadership, health, and inclusion programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities in your community.

“This polar plunge is sure to create lasting memories for all participants while supporting a very worthwhile cause,” added Councilman Imbroto. “Special Olympics New York changes lives through the joy of sports, and the Town of Oyster Bay is proud to partner with this outstanding organization

to help make this event a success. Please join with me in braving the chilly waters for a great reason.”

Pre-register yourself, family, and team today at www.PolarPlungeNY. org/TOBAY. For more information, call Rebecca Hoffmann at (631) 4581579 or e-mail rhoffmann@ nyso.org.

Thank you for the following sponsors: Northwell Health, Optimum, News 12 Long Island, Nassau County Police Department, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Embassy Diner, 7-Eleven, New York Islanders, 106.1 BLI, Special Olympics New York, Nassau County PBA, WBAB 102.3, Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, CSEA, Liberty Beverages, Adventureland, Adventureland’s Helping Hands Foundation, and Long Island Press.

Things To Know When Replacing Windows

Windows are durable, but they do not last forever. The experts at This Old House say the life span of home windows is between 15 and 50 years, with most reaching the upper limits of their life expectancy at around 20 years. Once they reach this age, the seals begin to weaken or fail, and windows become susceptible to drafts and water seepage.

Replacing windows can be a good investment. Such a project is one of the more effective ways to elevate a home’s curb appeal and value. New windows are energy efficient and make homes more secure. They also tend to look better than old, fading windows. When pondering a window replacement project, it’s important to consider these factors.

• Know the window types. Double hung windows are classic and have operable upper and lower sashes. Lowering the upper sash allows warm air near the ceiling to escape and cooler air can to flow in through the bottom. Single hung windows only have an operable lower sash. Sliding windows have one or more panels that move horizontally, and picture windows are fixed models designed to offer wide, unobstructed views and lots of light.

• Repair or replace windows. Existing windows

might just need to be repaired, saving homeowners thousands of dollars. It’s best to consult with a professional to see if certain components can be repaired rather than replaced. Typically, rotten framing, wet or weeping windows or significant drafts require replacement.

• Identify the differences between replacement windows and construction windows. Traditional replacement windows are sometimes called pocket windows, says Consumer Reports.

They fit inside an existing window frame. Construction windows require the removal of the entire old window, including the frame, sill and trim. The latter cost more to install.

• Familiarize yourself with window frame materials. Various window frame materials are available for purchase, and variables such as heat transfer, maintenance and durability differ with each product. Vinyl is a common material that’s low-maintenance and affordable. Aluminum and aluminum clad windows can be economical options, and they are corrosionresistant and require little maintenance. Wood also is popular for the interior parts of a window, and offer a traditional look. Wood is available on new construction windows. Fiberglass windows also are available in new construction windows. They won’t crack, warp, rust, corrode, or peel, and the frames will not expand and contract as much as other materials.

• Keep costs in mind. According to Fixr, an online marketplace for local remodeling services, the average national price for a professional to replace a window is around $800. For a onestory house, a window replacement project of multiple windows may cost around $8,000.

Light-Emittknow? ing Diode Bulbs

Light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) are energy-efficient and durable options. LEDs convert electricity into light instead of heat, and increasingly are used in a wide range of products, including lighting fixtures.

According to Energy Star®, LEDs produce light up to 90 percent more efficiently than incandescent light bulbs. LEDs also do not typically “burn out” or fail, like other types of bulbs. Because of their performance benefits, homeowners may be interested in switching over to LED bulbs to power their existing lighting fixtures. Generally speaking, LED bulbs can work in most non-LED fixtures, provided the base type matches the socket. The LED bulb also should be rated for the same line voltage for the fixture. Also, the fixture should not be enclosed, such as glass-encased ceiling lights or certain outdoor fixtures. The lack of ventilation can cause heat buildup, leading to damage or failure. In such instances, one should purchase LEDs specifically rated for enclosed fixtures.

Grief And Loss Peer-Led Support Group

Volunteers Wanted For Dune Grass Planting At TOBAY Beach March 28th

If you love the beach and want to help protect our shoreline, residents are invited to join Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Andrew Monteleone at the Town’s annual Dune Day on Saturday, March 28th, at 10 a.m. at TOBAY Beach.

This hands-on environmental initiative helps stabilize beach dunes by planting dune grass, which serves as a natural shield against storm surges and erosion. Strong dunes mean a stronger coastline, helping to protect TOBAY Beach.

“Our Dune Stabilization Project brings together

volunteers of all ages in a meaningful effort to protect and preserve our beautiful shoreline,” said Supervisor Saladino. “It’s a great opportunity for students, Scouts, and nature lovers to make a real difference while enjoying the outdoors.”

Dune Day is a fun and rewarding experience for families, school groups, and environmentally conscious residents. Volunteers will work alongside Town officials and crews, learning firsthand how simple actions can have a lasting impact on coastal preservation.

Councilman Monteleone added, “This is a wonderful initiative which brings the

community together to make a lasting impact on the environment. The planting of dune grass not only helps protect our beach, but it also builds awareness of the importance of coastal conservation.”

No early registration is required - just show up and dig in! For those who want to sign up in advance, visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ volunteer. Participants can receive a certificate for their volunteer efforts. For more information, contact the Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5943 or email environmental@oysterbayny.gov.

Gabriel’s Giving Tree (GGT), along with the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (LICADD), Families in Support of Treatment (FIST), Family & Children’s Association, (FCA) and Human Understanding and Growth Services (HUGS) are joining together to offer a free grief and loss peer-led support group. The group will meet at the East End THRIVE location, at 680 Elton Street, Riverhead, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. the first Thursday of each month. The focus of the support group will be to explore ways to find comfort, share support and begin healing for those who have lost a loved one. For more information, call Paulette at 631-7860368.

Caesar Salad • Verona Salad • Mozzarella Caprese • Artichoke Oreganata • Stracciatella Soup • Pasta E Fagioli Soup Rice Balls • Eggplant Rollatini • Calamari Fritti • Baked Clams

Chicken Valdostana

Breaded breast of chicken topped with prosciutto, melted mozzarella, porcini sauce, served with roasted potatoes

Chicken Scarpariello

Oven roasted off the bone with sausage, peppers, mushrooms, rosemary

Sole Portofino

Parmesan encrusted in lemon white wine sauce, served over risotto

Salmon Fiorentina

Fresh salmon pan seared in a lemon beurre blanc, served over sautéed spinach

Shrimp Scampi

Sautéed in garlic, butter, white wine and lemon, served over risotto with vegetables

Chicken with Penne

Francese, Parmigiana, Marsala, Milanese

Veal +$6 with Penne

Marsala, Milanese, Parmigiana, Sorrentino

MAIN COURSE (CHOOSE ONE)

Zucchini Linguini Fra Diavolo (Vegan)

Tossed in a spicy marinara sauce with crispy shitake mushrooms, add chicken +$

Penne alla Vodka

Shallots, prosciutto, vodka in tomato basil sauce with touch of cream, add chicken +$

Pappardelle Bolognese

Authentic meat sauce, ricotta cheese on top

Orecchiette alla Verona

Imported pasta sautéed with sausage, sundried tomatoes, chick peas, rapini, garlic & oil

Porcini Risotto (Vegetarian)

Risotto in a porcini mushroom sauce, topped with shaved parmigiana, add chicken +$

Eggplant Parmigiana

Baked in marinara with melted mozzarella on top, served with penne

Grilled Pork Chops +$

Topped with mushrooms, onions, cherry peppers, served with roasted potatoes

Branzino Oreganata +$

Fresh Mediterranean Sea bass & shrimp oven roasted with seasoned breadcrumbs in lemon white wine sauce, roasted potatoes, vegetables

Striped Squid Ink Lobster Ravioli +$

Squid ink and egg dough lobster rovioli sautéed in lobster sauce with jumbo shrimp

Crispy Duck +$

Fresh Long Island duck in orange-cranberry glaze, wild rice, roasted potatoes, vegetables

Grilled Steak +$

Grilled, topped with asparagus & melted mozzarella in a Barolo wine sauce served with onion rings

DESSERT (CHOOSE ONE)

Cannoli • Tiramisu • Key Lime Pie Flourless Choc-Cake +$3 • Tartufo +$6

EASTER CHEF

VENDORS WANTED

DELICIOUS

DATE: SUNDAY, JUNE 7TH

(RAIN DATE SUNDAY, JUNE 14TH)

MASSAPEQUA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNUAL STREET FESTIVAL

TIME: 11:00AM-6:00PM

LOCATION: LOWER BROADWAY IN MASSAPEQUA (Between Veterans Blvd. & Clark Ave.)

VENDOR SPACES AVAILABLE!

RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW! www.MASSAPEQUACHAMBER.org www.MASSAPEQUACHAMBER.org

Grace Episcopal Church

JOIN US FOR HOLY WEEK

THE MOST SACRED TIME ON THE CHRISTIAN CALENDAR

MARCH 29 - PALM SUNDAY

10:00am (In-person & Live Stream) - Celebrate Jesus’ Triumphant Entry Into Jerusalem (Procession From The Parish Hall)

APRIL 2 - MAUNDY THURSDAY

7:30pm (In-person & Live Stream) - Commemorates The Foot Washing & Last Supper Of Jesus Christ With The Apostles, The Nighttime Vigil. (Join Vigil On Zoom, Link To Be Posted On Chruch Website) APRIL 3 - GOOD FRIDAY

12:00 noon (In-person Only) - Stations Of The Cross - Commemorates The Cruci xion Of Jesus & His Death On The Cross. (No Live Stream) APRIL 4 - HOLY SATURDAY

THE GREAT VIGIL OF EASTER - 8:00pm (In-person & Live Stream)Commemorates Jesus’ Body Resting In The Tomb APRIL 5 - EASTER SUNDAY

10:00am (In-person & Live Stream) “HE HAS RISEN! - The Resurrection

23 Cedar Shore Drive • Massapequa

The Very Rev. Dr. Walter V. Hillebrand, Rector

Sharp Tax MARCH HAPPENINGS

SATURDAY, MARCH 28th

11:00AM

EASTER EGG HUNT & MEET THE EASTER BUNNY

The 2026 Annual Farmingdale Village Easter Egg Hunt & Meet the Easter Bunny on the Village Green (361 Main St). Attendees should arrive by 10:45 AM with their own baskets. The event is free, family-friendly, and features photos with the Easter Bunny at the gazebo. For more information, contact Farmingdale Village, www.farmingdalevillage. gov; Facebook events page: www. facebook.com/farmingdale11735 www.farmingdalebid.com, or call 516-249-0093

12:00PM

EASTER EGG HUNT

Join the Fun!! Outdoor Easter Egg Hunt followed by a contest and more!! St. John’s Lutheran Church 36 E. John Street in Lindenhurst. Bring A Friend!! Please bring your own basket. In case of rain, the show will go on indoors. Meet The Easter Bunny!

1:00PM-4:00PM

“SNEAK PEEK” AT THE NEWLY RENOVATED FREIGHT HOUSE

The Lindenhurst Historical Society invites all residents, friends, and neighbors to take a “sneak peek” at the newly renovated Freight House, one of the three buildings that make up the museum complex at Irmisch Historic Park, located at the intersection of South Broadway and South Third Street. The Old Village Hall Museum, which celebrated its grand reopening last July, will be opened as well and docents will be on hand to host visitors as they tour the entire site. Admission is free for

MAKE A SUBMISSION! Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com

all museums; donations are gratefully accepted. For more information, please call 631-506-8431 or email lindenhursthistoricalsociety@gmail. com.

7:30PM

Gene DiNapoli Presents THE LIVERPOOL SHUFFLE BEATLES TRIBUTE BAND

At the Bayway Arts Center, 265 East Main Street in East Islip, The Liverpool Shuffle, originally formed in 2003 by Joe Refano, (formerly of Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone and Micky Dolenz’ Monkees Band), THE LIVERPOOL SHUFFLE brings together veterans of the New York Music Scene with a combined 200 years of musical experience between them. THE LIVERPOOL SHUFFLE provides a fun, entertaining LIVE BEATLE SHOW with a real emphasis on THE MUSIC. They play it the way The Beatles did! For more information, please call 631-581-2700

SUNDAY, MARCH 29th

1:00PM-5:00PM

KiDS NEED MoRE SPRING VENDOR FAIR

American Legion Hall, 80 Herbert Avenue in Lindenhurst. Setup begins 11:00 AM. Local vendors, shopping, raffles. Pictures with the Easter Bunny. Kids games and Spring Activities. Free Admission. Vendors wanted. Questions? info®kidsneedmore. org,kidsneedmore.org, Website: www.kidsneedmore.org/vendors or call 631-608-3135

2:00PM

LOVESONG FOR SUNRISE FUNDRAISER

Long Island band Lovesong will

headline a special event at The Nutty Irishman in Farmingdale to help raise funds for Sunrise Day Camp–Long Island, which provides summer camps, year-round programs, and in-hospital activities for children with cancer and their siblings — all offered free of charge. Tickets and more information can be found at: sunrisewalks.org/Lovesong. The mission of the Sunrise Association is to bring the joys of summer back to children diagnosed with cancer and their siblings, all completely free of charge.

TUESDAY, MARCH 31st

ARRIVE BEFORE 8:30AM BUS TRIP TO WIND CREEK CASINO BETHLEHEM, PA

Hosted by Joseph Barry Columbiettes. $60 pp, includes driver’s tip. Give Back: $35 slot play. Return approx. 8:30 p.m. Parking: 999 So. Oyster Bay Road (dead end) For more information, and reservations. please call Barbara at 516-935-5576

3:00PM-7:00PM BLOOD DRIVE

Deputy Minority Leader Drucker, Jericho Library Will host a Blood Drive, at the Jericho Public Library, located at 1 Merry Lane in Jericho. O-negative and B-negative donors are especially needed in addition to all other blood types. Appointments are preferred; walk-ins will be taken as capacity permits. Limited appointments to make double red cell donations are available. Call 1-800-93-BLOOD (25663) or visit https://donate.nybc.org/donor/ schedules/drive_schedule/331396 to make an appointment. For more information, contact Deputy Minority Leader Drucker’s office 516-571-6216 or adrucker@nassaucountyny.gov

Massapequa Student Leaders Share Culture With Future Language Learners

“Discover languages, discover the world” was the theme of the 21st annual World Language Festival, hosted by the Massapequa School District on March 12. Hundreds of elementary students attended, enjoying cultural activities led by Massapequa High School language clubs and honor societies.

French, German, Mandarin Chinese and

Spanish were featured, with students learning basic phrases while exploring hands-on experiences and collecting passport stamps.

Activities included crafts, traditional dance, cookie decorating, yo-yo spinning, chopstick challenges, Chinese character writing and a lion dance.

Spanish-themed rooms offered projects like Guatemalan worry

dolls, Costa Rican animal art, “Encanto”-inspired flowers and an Amazon jungle experience. The gym hosted face painting, while cafeterias became an international food court.

Katherine Kirschner called the event a celebration of community and culture, emphasizing the importance of immersive experiences in fostering empathy and global awareness.

at the 21st annual World Language Festival on March 12.

How To SpotFoundation Isues Foundation

Home ownership can be a rewarding endeavor and a good investment over time. But homes require consistent upkeep to ensure a property remains safe, a condition of ownership that renters typically do not need to concern themselves with. Foundation issues are a component of home ownership that can be easy to forget, as such concerns are not necessarily evident in frequently visited areas of a home. A foundation provides structural integrity for the entire home, so addressing damage is essential. The experts at This Old House indicate that some foundation issues can be relatively easy and inexpensive to address. Other issues may not be so simple, especially if they challenge the structural integrity of a home.

Learning to recognize foundation issues can help homeowners sort through small problems and big ones. But what are signs of foundation problems? Consider these potential issues, as noted by This Old House, Robbie Breaux & Team Real Broker, LLC and Bay Crawl Space Foundation Repair.

• Cracks in walls: Cracks appearing in foundation walls, drywall or plaster, especially diagonal or stair-step cracks forming near doorways, windows or corners, might be indicative of foundation movement. If a crack has formed in a living space, something is likely moving below since floors are supported from the foundation upward. Cracks thicker than onequarter of an inch in foundation

walls or home walls can be a problem.

• Sagging porches and stoops: Notable sagging of porches or stoops can indicate that a house is sinking or changing faster than other areas.

• Separation between door and window frames and walls: Gaps can form around windows and doors if the foundation is shifting. The gaps that form can lead to water and pest infiltration if left untreated, causing even more issues.

• Cabinets and countertops separating from walls: Homeowners who notice considerable space forming between cabinets or countertops and the wall indicate that the frame of the home is out of square. That likely means a foundation is settling or sinking.

• Squeaky, bouncy or sagging floors: While these issues in floors may not always result from foundation issues, they often indicate that moisture has invaded the basement or crawl space. That moisture may have gained access through a cracked or compromised foundation.

• Leaning or cracked chimney: If a chimney resembles the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it could be a sign of possible foundation issues causing settling or sinking.

Bringing in a professional to assess potential foundation issues is a good idea.

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WORDS

Find the words hidden vertically, horizontally, diagonally, and backwords.

NOW HIRING: Summer Jobs Available For Recreation Counselors And Youth Sports Positions

Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino announced that there are still openings for summer employment in the Town of Oyster Bay. Positions are available for the 2026 Summer Recreation Program, as well as the Youth Tennis and Basketball Programs. Those interested must be 16 years of age or older to apply.

“These great summer jobs are ideal for community teens ages 16 or older who are looking to build their resume,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Our summer recreation counselors and youth sports assistants and

coaches have a lot of fun while receiving hands-on experience and making a difference in the lives of others.”

The Summer Recreation Program runs for six weeks, from June 29th through August 7th. Applicants must be available for the duration of the program. Sessions are Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Program participants take part in trips, tournaments, shows and athletic events, including the TOBAY Games, making being a counselor a great first job for many residents.

Tennis Assistants must be 16+, have at least 2 years of experience participating on a Tennis team, and be available for the duration of the program, which also runs from June through August.

Tennis Coaches must be a 4.0 USTA rating, currently play tennis, and have prior experience teaching children and adults on all levels. Applicants must be available to work for the duration of the program which runs from May through September.

Basketball Coaches must have at least 2 years of

experience playing basketball and/or coaching a prior team and be available to coach at least one game a week along with one practice a week. Coaches will be given the opportunity to set up a practice that works best for themselves and their team. Applicants for referees must have a least 2 years of experience in refereeing basketball games.

For more information, prospective applicants should contact Town’s Department of Parks, Recreation Division, at (516) 797-7945.

Assemblyman Durso Announces Annual Pet Food Drive

New York State

Assemblyman Michael Durso (R-Massapequa Park), in coordination with Long Island Cares, is inviting the community to participate in his annual Pet Food Drive to help families keep their pets out of shelters and remain at home where they belong. Now through March 27, 2026.

Assemblyman Durso is asking residents, community organizations and pet lovers to kindly donate unopened bags of dog and cat food, canned pet food and pet supplies. All items collected will be donated to Baxter’s Pet Pantry, operated by Long Island Cares, which provides free pet food and pet supplies to pet-owning

families in need throughout Long Island.

Donations can be dropped off at Assemblyman Durso’s district office located at 512 Park Boulevard in Massapequa Park or at various other locations throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

For more information, call Durso’s district office at 516541-4598.

Donations are being accepted at the following locations:

• Assemblyman Durso’s District Office: 512 Park Boulevard, Massapequa Park

• Babylon Public Library 24 S Carll Ave, Babylon

• North Babylon Public Library 815 Deer Park Ave, North Babylon

• West Babylon Public Library 211 NY-109, West Babylon

• West Islip Public Library 3 Higbie Lane, West Islip

Participating Schools (only accepting staff and student

donations):

• Massapequa High School Main Campus, Massapequa

• Massapequa High School Ames Campus, Massapequa

• Bayview Elementary School, West Islip

• Manetuck Elementary School, West Islip

• Oquenock Elementary School, West Islip

• Beach Street Middle School, West Islip

• Udall Road Middle School, West Islip

• West Islip High School, West Islip

• Paul J Bellow Elementary School, West Islip

Mortgage Satisfaction Or New Homeowner Notification

Oyster Bay Town Receiver of Taxes, Jeffrey Pravato, reminds residential property owners that it is essential to notify his office upon satisfying their mortgage.

In addition, Receiver Pravato encourages residents who recently purchased a home, condominium or co-op unit, or recently refinanced, to be sure that notification in writing is sent to Jeffrey P. Pravato, Receiver of Taxes, 74 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, NY 11771-1539 or email

receiveroftaxes@oysterbay-ny. gov.

“This will ensure that tax bills are received promptly by the homeowner,” said Tax Receiver Pravato. “A homeowner relying on a bank, attorney, or Nassau County to notify the Tax Office may find there is a delay in billing the homeowner directly, which can lead to the imposition of a late payment penalty.”

“When writing, property owners should include the legal property description,

including the school district, section, block, and lot numbers, as well as the name and address to whom tax bills should be directed. In the case of condominiums, the building and unit number should be noted,” added Tax Receiver Pravato. Residents may also report their information in person by visiting the Office of the Receiver of Taxes at Town Hall North at 74 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay or Town Hall South at 977 Hicksville Road,

Massapequa. Both offices are open daily from 9:00 am to 4:45 pm to assist residents. Property owners residing in incorporated villages must also notify their village assessor. Homeowners requiring further assistance should contact the Office of the Receiver of Taxes at (516) 624-6400. “The knowledgeable and courteous tax information specialists on my staff will be happy to assist you,” Pravato concluded.

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